Epiphany School is a tuition-free independent school with a mission to “enable children to discover and develop the fullness of their individual gifts and to help their families thrive.” Sound familiar? It should. Early St. James leaders went searching for a model. They found it after they visited Epiphany School in Dorchester, MA, and met with The Rev. John H. Finley, IV, its Co-Founder and Head of School. The model, which springs from the Episcopal tradition that we find God in and through each other, has now inspired 19 schools across the country.

In 2026, as Epiphany School celebrates its 30th anniversary, we honor the organization for its inspiration and shining example. Epiphany School will be represented at the Benefit by The Rev. John H. Finley, IV and founding math and science teacher Dr. Michelle Sanchez, who now leads the school as Principal.

Learn more about the school at epiphanyschool.com.

From the beginning, St. James has sought church partners aligned with our values. We found that and so much more in one of our earliest partners, the Philadelphia Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, which aspires to “community engagement and social justice … unconditional welcome and inclusion … and becoming a racism-free and diverse community.” The church itself and many of its parishioners have been supporting our work with generous gifts and countless volunteer hours since 2011.

When the pandemic hit, intensifying food insecurity for our neighbors, church volunteers jumped in to assist The Welcome Table. A group began meeting each Friday to bake fresh desserts and deliver them for the Saturday Farmers Market. Six years later, that incredibly “sweet” gesture continues.

This year, we honor the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields for its enduring partnership, exemplified by deep relationships that have enriched lives and contributed to the thriving of both organizations. At the Benefit, the church will be represented by its rector, The Rev. Dr. Mary Barber. Learn more about the church at stmartinec.org.

From earning his BA in Psychology from Lincoln University to inspiring others through his career at the Culinary Careers Program, Kevine embodies perseverance and purpose. He brings insight, curiosity, and warmth into every space, whether mentoring in the culinary field or simply stopping by the Huskies Hangout to connect. Kevine is a living example of what it means to share the spark with the world.